How to Remove a Broken Key From an RV Lock – RVBlogger

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A broken RV key is a huge problem for your vacation. I remember getting a frustrating call from my mother when they suffered a broken camper key while on vacation. She called while they were waiting for a locksmith to remove the broken key from the RV lock.

For my mom, the annoyance was more about not being able to have happy hour than the broken key. It was an annoyance nonetheless and was an unanticipated expense and experience for their vacation.

Chances are, like my parents, you might have to deal with this problem. Knowing how to properly remove a broken key from an RV lock is a handy skill. 

Having the right tools and the right phone numbers can reduce the stress and annoyance of having a broken RV key. In this article, we offer some solutions to resolving a broken key in an RV lock.

How Do You Get A Broken Key Out Of An RV Lock?

Removing a broken key from an RV lock can be a do-it-yourself (DIY) task if you are patient and careful. If you are stuck in the middle of nowhere, the DIY option may be the only solution.

Before we delve into your options, knowing a bit about locks is helpful. Most RV locks (doors, compartments, gas tanks, etc.) use a cylinder with pins. When you insert your key into the lock, the pins adjust to the shape of the key. If the shape of the key is correct, you can turn the key to lock or unlock it. 

The wrong key will not set the pins in the correct position, so it will not turn. If the lock gets stuck before completing the full turn, the pins will freeze around the key. This means you have a stuck key. If you turn too hard or try to force the key from a stuck lock, the key may break. This is when it is helpful to know how to remove a broken key from an RV lock.

There are lots of ways other RV owners have resolved this problem. However, some are not great and can needlessly damage your RV. Here is a list of our recommended solutions.

1. Hire An RV Locksmith

If you are camping in a place that is close to a town, the best way to get a broken key from an RV lock is to hire a locksmith. They have the proper tools to remove the key part from the lock without damage.

The locksmith can also remove the cylinder and fix the pins that are stuck. This may be an…